West Nile Virus
West Nile virus is transmitted by the bite of an infected mosquito. It is widespread in Africa, southern Europe, and western Asia. It first appeared in the United States in 1999 in the greater New York City area. By 2002, it spread to 44 states. It has caused illness and mortality in humans, wildlife and domestic animals, especially birds and horses. In humans, it causes an influenza-like illness that may lead to aseptic meningitis, encephalitis, and death, especially in persons over 50 years of age. West Nile virus is important because it affects not only people, but also wildlife (including many game animals), and some domestic animals, especially horses.

In conjunction with the Ohio Department of Health the Division of Environment collects mosquitoes and packages them for shipment to the State Laboratory for data collection purposes. The division aggressively treats areas of concern.

Area residents are being encouraged to be prepared and take personal precautions against mosquitoes by using mosquito repellant, remaining indoors at peak times, wearing appropriate clothing, and identifying and eliminating standing water in and around their homes. For further information please read our Fact Sheet or click the following links.

It is not possible to determine if 2017 will be a bad West Nile Virus year, but it is known that the risk of human cases will increase as more mosquitoes become infected. Surrounding states have seen similar early increases in activity and some have reported equine and human cases (see links below). We will continue to work with our local surveillance partners to monitor the situation and provide updates.

Ohio Mosquito-borne Disease 2017 Numbers-At-A-Glance as of July 10, 2017: